RFGC NEWSLETTER – MARCH 2006

RFGC NEWSLETTER – MARCH 2006
Newsletters will be produced on a quarterly calendar basis and are likely to be available during the last week of
each Quarter.
The logistics of mailing out to all members are daunting and it has been decided to place future Newsletters on RFGC’s
web site:
www.royalfremantlegc.com.au
as well as producing a number of hard copies for collection by the members from the counters of the Match Office,
General Office and also Associates' Match Room.
Please ensure you visit our web site on a regular basis as there may also be other information/communications placed
there from time to time that you may find to be useful reading, including copies of the Club’s Annual Report.
CONTACT DETAILS E-MAIL ADDRESSES
Approximately three years ago, the Club collected over 700 e-mail addresses from the Membership. Subsequently, there
were a large number of returned e-mails due to incorrect addresses, changed addresses and full mailboxes and this
prevented us from achieving the aims of this exercise.
It would be appreciated if all members could e-mail their current contact details to the Club at:
jennym@royalfremantlegc.com.au
to ensure we have an accurate, up-to-date database of e-mail addresses. This will allow us to e-mail future Newsletters
and other regular information updates.
1. INTRODUCTION
Highlights since last Newsletter:
Centenary Year closing ceremony was held on 28 December 2005 and was attended by approx 200 people.
Captaincy baton changed from Ron Donaldson to Kevin Miller, thus continuing the South Fremantle Football Club
connection following previous Captaincy stints by Doug Ingraham and Rick Gloede. About time East Fremantle
sympathisers displayed their leadership qualities!!!
Construction of new buggy/bike shed has now been completed.
McKerchar pairs knockout was won convincingly by David Coster and Norm Burd who defeated Ken Castledine
and Troy Warrick in the final.
Alan Becker shot a lazy 65 off the stick on Tuesday, 27 December 2005 – His 4 handicap has shrunk to 2.
Dennis Bell struck a recent rare vein of form reducing his handicap from 9 to 4 – still 8 shots higher than his plus 4
handicap held during his halcyon years. Tough game when you need to shoot 68 to finish with 36 points.
Busy Bee - 12 February 2006.
Annual General Meeting - 7 March 2006.
Opening Day - 11 March 2006.
2. OUR NEW DEPUTY CHAIRMAN/VICE CAPTAIN – LEO JAMES
There are likely to be many members who may not be familiar with Leo's background, so I thought it would be
useful to provide a brief overview.
Leo has been a member of RFGC since returning to live in Perth in 1990. He lived and was educated in the
Fremantle area and in his youth, he caddied at the club.
His working life has included a career in the Royal Australian Air Force. He resigned his commission with the
rank of Wing Commander in 1986. During his service career, he served in most states of Australia as well as
undertaking a tour of duty in England on exchange with the Royal Air Force. He is a graduate of the RAAF Staff
College and has commanded various RAAF Units/Squadrons.
In the 1984 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for
providing outstanding service and exceptional leadership skills to the RAAF.
Since leaving the RAAF he worked for over 15 years in the private sector in a senior management role with
Woodside Petroleum.
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Leo has undertaken various roles including commercial, financial and project management and retired as their
Business Manager Logistics. He is a Certified Practising Accountant and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of
Company Secretaries.
He is currently the President of the WA Branch of the Regular Defence Force Welfare Association, a large
organisation fostering the interests of serving military members while also advising and assisting ex service
members and their dependants on matters affecting their welfare.
Having lived in many locations he has been involved in club activities and has played golf in most states of
Australia, in the UK and in Asia (predominantly in Singapore).
He is sensitive to the fact that many senior members are on a fixed or self-funded income and this must be
considered when reviewing the necessity for any future development that may result in a need to increase
membership fees.
Unfortunately, he has a misguided passion for East Fremantle Football Club but no-one’s perfect. He is also a
keen Rugby supporter.
A major part of Leo's brief will involve the role of managing and co-coordinating our various Pennant teams.
3. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OVERVIEW
The 2005 AGM was held on Tuesday, 7 March 2006. There were 70 in attendance (comparable with previous
years).
Generally the meeting was low key and no major issues arose which is testament to the quality and commitment of
the 2005 Board.
Key matters arising/issues discussed at the AGM are summarised as follows:
Slow Play
There was considerable discussion on this issue and the end result was referred back to Match Sub-Committee for
full attention.
It was noted that stoppage for drinks at half time was a factor and the meeting was advised that the previous
practice of providing eskies on the course at strategic intervals has been ruled illegal. A Course Marshall will be
patrolling the course during March 2006.
Re-Naming of Holes
Again, there was much relevant discussion both for and against and as reported in the previous Newsletter the
Project Team, Chaired by Ron Marlborough, decided that no change to the existing status quo was the final
recommendation of his sub-committee team.
Land Ownership
There is no further advance, due primarily, to the many complexities associated with this matter. Ron Donaldson
discussed the issue with our Associate member, Barbara Weiss who holds an executive position in the Department
of Land Administration.
Car Park
It was announced that the area will be fully bituminised over the next 2 years.
Focus Group
Incoming Captain, Kevin Miller advised the meeting that a sub-committee focus group would be formed to
establish a clear vision statement for the next 3-5 years, which will govern the direction of the Club in the short
term.
Clubhouse Air-Conditioning
Ron Marlborough suggested the Board consider changing to reverse cycle mode.
Bar Refrigeration
Ken Bridges noted that an upgrading should be considered, as take away purchases are often lukewarm.
% of Competition Fees Allocated to Trophies/Balls
Geoff Smith responded to a query by Ric Lendrum that the relevant percentage was 85, which had been in place
now for many years.
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On-Line Timesheets
Geoff Smith advised the meeting that this initiative is on the agenda but may not be implemented for some time, as
there is the need for integration with several other associated systems.
Carts for Hire
The Club will purchase three carts for hire, trade, and corporate days.
Buggy fees
Ric Lendrum suggested that this apply to new members only. Kevin Miller responded that the Board Policy is to
ensure equity for all members – See item 18 for detail.
Junior Members – Ineligible to Win Saturday Competitions
Neil Cleary expressed disappointment that we have chosen to adopt this policy. Three of the top four players in
the Club are on Plus 1, Scratch and 2 handicaps and can win the Australian Open, State Open etc but cannot win
their own Club competition.
It was noted that Juniors who actually return the best score in Saturday competitions receive a $30.00 voucher as
opposed to $100.00 voucher for senior winners and this inequity should be addressed by either reducing
competition fees for Juniors and/or increasing the value of the vouchers for Junior winners.
4. GENERAL MANAGER – BOB HORGAN
Centenary Year review – refer 2005 Annual Report for full details – please ask the Office Staff if you wish to
obtain a copy.
Dress Rules – members are reminded that they need to be ever vigilant, especially when they invite guests to
the Club.
5. FINANCIAL OVERVIEW – GEOFF SMITH
As you are probably aware, the Board increased members' subscriptions for 2006 by approximately 4%.
This decision was based upon the principle to keep fees as low as possible, providing that the Club can
generate sufficient income to adequately fund the day to day operations, repay short term borrowings, sustain
realistic Course and House upgrade and fund the normal on-going capital requirements such as Course
machinery.
Factors such as current inflation rate to gauge future cost of goods and services including wages and levels
and category numbers of membership, were also taken into account.
The Club finished 2005 in a stable financial position.
During 2006 the overall objective of the Board is to finalise all outstanding projects, consolidate and then
establish strategies to move the Club forward, supported by sustained financial stability.
6. COURSE OVERVIEW – JOHN LITTERICK
Carpark entry/exit gates – no further immediate plans.
Major new Capital Items in 2006 Budget:
o Changes to 5th tee to improve safety for players on the green.
o 6th tee realignment.
o Remodel 10th hole front bunker.
o Examine a green replacement program.
7. MATCH OVERVIEW – NEIL CLEARY
The slow play virus has recently reappeared and a checklist of guidelines to assist in combating slow play is
currently being drawn up, following a survey of actions/strategies adopted by other Clubs. This checklist will be
available in the near future but to date there has been only one response.
It was interesting to note that on Opening Day with shotgun starts, rounds were completed in just a touch over
4 hours – it can be done!!!
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We are currently experimenting on Thursdays with starting a small number of groups from the 16th tee which
enables the last hit-off from the 1st and 10th tees to be 12.54. It is hoped that this initiative will result in an earlier
finish and enable earlier presentations.
Shotgun Starts – four (4) are planned for 2006.
8. HOUSE OVERVIEW – ANNE GOOD
9. ASSOCIATES' NEWS – MARCH 2006 - ELSMA MERILLO/JANE BROCKHURST
Season 2006 is shaping up to be as enjoyable as that we have just experienced. Already many of our ladies have
maintained and fostered the friendships initiated during our Centenary Celebrations. Even without the Centenary
Week Celebrations and the number of State and National Golf Events we hosted in 2005, the Calendar is very full.
During this Season, we will endeavour to undertake a number of initiatives to support the Associates' Celebrations
in 2007. The first of the social functions is to be held at RFGC on Friday evening, 7 April. At a cost of $50.00,
you can enjoy a 3-course meal with Forester Wines to compliment the food. ALL (Members and Non-
Members) are invited. Places are limited so book early!
Congratulations to the winner of the Summer Eclectic, Rosemary Burd with a score of 60. We look forward to
Rosemary playing a significant role in our Metropolitan Pennant Team in 2006. Practice for both Outer Suburban
Pennants and Metropolitan Pennants has commenced. Commitment, performance and that dreaded potential,
talent, will be considered by Match Committee with the view to winning in 2006!!!
This Season we will have 3 Grades only – A Grade: 02-2, B Grade: 23-30, C Grade: 31-45.
Throughout the Season, we will again be tackling the issue of SLOW PLAY. A good start is to engage in an
honest self-assessment of the chronic problem, whilst displaying respect and tolerance towards others.
Let us all have an enjoyable and rewarding 2006 Season.
10. COMPETITION RESULTS – SATURDAYS 2006
AM PM
Winner Runner-Up Winner Runner-Up
07/01/2006 S Kelly 44 A Becker 42 M Bowater 43 S Batterham 40
14/01/2006 D Goss 41 R Tan 41 B Edwards 44 C Bartels 43
21/01/2006 B Woods 67 P Cunningham 68 G Catten 68 F Micale 69
28/01/2006 A Watters 6up R Harland 5up T Goerke 4up J Irvine 3up
04/02/2006 L Meiklejohn 40 P Fare 40 M Cox 43 W Cromarty 43
11/02/2006 J Every 42 D Gibbons 42 C Roffey 42 R Tastula 39
18/02/2006 J McNamara 4up R Harland 4up G Meyers 4up S Gray 4up
25/02/2006 T Hashimoto 41 N Magee 40 P Schaeffer 44 J Di Giovanni 43
04/03/2006 "A" B Munro 67 "B" J Eadie 67 "C" P Hertnon 67
The Eadie/Hertnon Quinella would have been a carry-over.
Opening Day B Roberts &
11/03/2006 A Doig 47 Runners-Up 46 M Lilly & L Bishop
20 years ago – Saturdays 1986
AM PM
26/01/86 F Woods 6up A Robson 5up
02/02/86 P West 44 R Holland 42
09/02/86 A Every 40 D Ingraham 41
16/02/86 F Worrall 7up L Gilbert 5up
23/2 R Given 40 W Anderton 41
2/3 J Ducat 6up Runners-Up 5up R Rate/J Johnson
John Every was successful in 2006 whilst his son Tony, a former A Grade pennant player, won the equivalent
competition 20 years earlier.
We are all aware how mild our 2005/2006 summer was and this is highlighted by the following comparison with
20 years ago.
Average maximum temperatures 85/86 05/2006
December 25.5C 23.6C Coldest on record
January 31.9C 28.8C Coldest for 15 years
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11. PENNANTS 2006
Representation is unchanged from 2005.
VETERANS
Over 55’s – 2 teams of 10 players per team – April/May.
Four-Ball match play off handicap.
Contact person is Wally Maker.
Veterans' pennants are self-funding.
ASSOCIATES
Contact persons are Elsma Merillo and Gail Bergen.
o Outer Suburban
This Year the format has changed for Outer Suburban Pennants and we will be playing Home and Away
against Gosnells, Hartfield and Melville Glades commencing 24 March.
Play-offs will then occur with Top of our Section from Rockingham, Mandurah, Pinjarra and Kwinana at
Host Club for 2006, Melville Glades.
Because this competition is played on Friday it will impact upon our Sweepstakes on Friday as tee-offs
for Pennants will be from the 1st from 8.00am - 9.00am. I think we'll cope!
o Metropolitan
Metropolitan Pennants commence 29 May. The Montgomery girls will not be available to us as they
pursue their dreams however, we understand that Nicole is making every effort to return in the Northern
Summer break to be available for as many matches as possible and if Talei's babies keep themselves
under control we may secure her services for several matches as well.
Regardless of all of these changing and somewhat unpredictable situations, we are looking for a number
of our ladies to step up and take on Match Play situations against their peers!!!
The attendance at the clinics on Tuesday morning being conducted by Steve Herbert, is an indication of
the effort being put in, so RFGC can achieve better end results than we achieved in 2005.
DIVISION 1 – A AND B GRADE TEAMS
7 players per team - June/July.
Teams normally comprise players on handicaps of 5 or less.
Contact persons are Leo James, Clayton Gunning, Neil Cleary and Peter Carbon.
DIVISION 1 JUNIORS
One team of 7 which plays in conjunction with Division 1 above. It is expected that players will need to attain a
handicap of approx 12 or less. The first 3 matches are played off the stick and the final 4 are played off handicap.
Contact persons are Michael Montgomery and Peter Carbon.
Division 1 and Junior pennants were virtually self-funded in 2005, despite the need to outfit the players and to
provide post match sit down meals for players, caddies and Club officials.
This is due primarily to the generous support of our sponsors, the success of our fund-raising day and the stringent
policy in place regarding uniform replacements.
Continued sponsor support is vital and all members are invited to participate. Through natural attrition, the
number of regular supporters is dwindling and hasn’t been supplemented by our new Members who may be able to
contribute.
New Members who may be in a position to become involved are asked to contact Clayton Gunning by e-mail on
gunnwgv@bigpond.net.au or Mob: 0409 530 593 and/or Leo James for further details.
Sponsorship is available from $220.00 and is tax deductible and all sponsors are duly recognised in many ways.
AGC OUTER-SUBURBAN PENNANTS – JUNE/JULY
One team of 7 players contest match play off the stick
This is an opportunity for competitive higher handicap players to be involved in match play. Contact Scott Bruce
– Mob 0414 789 651.
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12. DIVISION 1 PLAYER PROFILES
Age Handicap Family
Married/
Occupation
Don Anderson 54 2 SonTim 20 Truck Driver
On his day can beat anyone / Runner up Club Championships 2005/popular team member.
Currently out of action until April with a damaged wrist – the result of a club snapping on impact and severing
tendons – this is a case of the revenge of the 6 iron for serial abuse!!!
Alan Becker 38 3 Married Prosecuting Sergeant WA Police
Former Albany Club Champion.
Shot 65 late last year.
James Bleakley 18 4 Single Gentleman of Leisure
Former Albany Club Champion – joined the Club last year and was unbeaten in 2 starts in B Grade.
Has been showing great recent form.
Ken Chai 24 5 Single
Very steady player.
Married/
Aaron Doig 29 3 3 children Manager CBA Fremantle
Most enthusiastic participant/excellent for team morale.
Former State Colts team rep.
Mark Doig 41 4
Former Gosnells B Grade player/beat young Monty in 2005 Club Championships quarter final.
Paul Mews 19 Plus 1 Single Gentleman of Leisure
Current No 1 player, former Club Champion, unlimited potential.
Made giant strides in his approach to the game in 2005 and could easily earn a place in the WA Colts Team in
2006-02-01.
Andrew Hurley 27 1 Single Foodlands Storeman
Current Club Champion but unfortunately does not play enough to maintain the high standards his game often
reaches. This prevents him from challenging strongly for a place in WA State team.
Gene Roberts 18 2 Single AIS Melbourne
Currently in Melbourne on a training and development program until May 2006.
There is some degree of doubt about whether he will be available to play in 2006.
He is due to play in the State Amateur Championships at RFGC in late April 2006.
Michael Montgomery 17 Scr Single Student
Stepped up to A Grade last year & handled the change exceptionally, losing just the one game.
Recent form in Junior and Open events has been very impressive.
Fired 67 at Albany Classic.
Paul Fenton 15 3 Single Student
An emerging player who has come ahead in leaps and bounds in recent times.
Shi Fu 24 4 Single Serial University Student
A long standing player who unfortunately has little opportunity to play on a regular basis due to continuing
University degree/doctorate studies
Kyle Lockyer 17 6 Single Gentleman of Leisure
Another of our promising juniors who is planning to play more regularly this season following completion of his
HSC studies and is likely to be a big improver.
Brett Roberts 32 3 Married Public Service
Well-performed stalwart over many years/highly committed.
Mark Robbins 34 2 Single Storeman/Packer
Finished last year in B Grade. former Club Champion, extremely talented and far too good a player to be in
B Grade.
Peter Waghorn 41 5 Married Sales Manager Beaurepaires
Another long-standing team member with an excellent record.
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Ben Redman 18 5 Single Gentleman of Leisure
Ex Albany - strong player with a good attitude – performed well in Division 1 Juniors in 2005.
Steve O’Hare 31 5 Single Sales Representative
Steve is a useful player who is unlucky to have missed out on selection in recent years.
Tudor Graham 36 2
About to apply for membership – ex Bexley Golf Club in NSW.
Darren Goss 39 4 Married Bricklayer
Father of promising Junior, Oliver.
Has been showing consistent form of late.
Last year was extremely disappointing, largely due to a distinct lack of pre-season preparation and whilst our
B Grade were Runners-Up, a Pennant went begging.
This year we intend to adopt a more structured approach to pre-season preparation with an emphasis on training
programs, player meetings and more rounds played away from RFGC.
Unfortunately, we have lost Ben Petersen and Eoin Tyrrell – Ben is having a year or two off and is currently sunsoaking
on the Gold Coast whilst Eoin has transferred to Non-Playing due to many time pressures which will
prevent him playing a great deal of golf in the near future.
Hopefully, these losses will be offset by the emergence of a number of promising Juniors.
We have enjoyed very little success in recent years, despite fielding talented teams and we aim to change this in
2006 – expect to see a far more committed and professional team this year.
13. BOARD/SUB-COMMITTEE BACKGROUND INFORMATION
It is somewhat disappointing that despite the vast range of skills, qualifications and business expertise available
within our membership base, there is always a constant struggle to convince members to either join the Board
and/or the various supporting sub-committees.
There may well be misapprehensions or incorrect perceptions of the duties, responsibilities and time commitments
relative to representation.
Board members meet formally 12 times a year for approximately 2 hours per meeting. Sub-Committees chaired by
the various Directors meet once per month for normally 1 hour. The role of members co-opted to sub-committees
involves contribution to discussion on issues and represents very little imposition on your time. Furthermore, it is
also an invaluable opportunity to learn more about the detailed operations of Club Management. I would
encourage any member who is interested in being involved to contact Bob Horgan for further information and
background detail.
Current members of the various sub-committees are as follows:
Match
Chairman – Tony Kelly, Elsma Merillo, Jock Irvine, Bob Given, Chris Schrape and Neil Cleary.
Course
Chairman – John Litterick, Jeff Allen, John Garland, Kevin Miller, Ron Donaldson, Mark Robbins, Don Urquhart
and Mark Harland.
Membership
Chairman – Frank Woods, Jane Brockhurst, Elsma Merillo, Geoff Smith, Peter Carbon and Allan Lange.
House
Chairperson – Anne Good, Violet Craig, Joan Smith, Barbara Lange, Clayton Gunning, plus selected co-optees as
required.
Pennants
Chairman – Leo James, Clayton Gunning, Neil Cleary, Peter Carbon and either Andy Mowatt or Steve Herbert.
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14. PROFILE ON NON-PLAYING MEMBERS
At present there are, give or take, 250 Members and Associates on the Non-Playing list – representing 22% of our
Senior Membership total.
This option is available to all members at all times but will normally apply when you are playing little golf due to
illness, family pressures, extended holidays, etc. You need to make an application, in writing, to the General
Manager. The minimum time frame for a Non-Playing member is 6 months and pro rata fee adjustments
immediately apply.
Whilst your status is Non-Playing you are entitled to play a maximum of 6 rounds per annum at RFGC on an
agreed green fee basis. Annual subscriptions are $264.00 for Members and $200.00 for Associates (includes a bar
levy of $80.00).
Non-Playing members are ineligible to qualify for reciprocal playing rights at other Clubs. You may also lose the
right to store your clubs in the buggy room and to retain possession of your locker.
Please also refer to the current Fixture Book (2006/2007) Page 9 (bottom) for further details related to playing
rights.
15. SENIOR/VETERAN MEMBER’S FEE CONCESSIONS – ELIGIBILITY RULES
It is not widely known, but once a member reaches the age of 65 and has at least 15 years of continuous
membership he/she is eligible for a fee concession which equates to an amount of 50% of the increased fee in each
subsequent year – refer Section 6.9 of the Club Constitution.
If we assume the Annual Subscription for Ordinary Members is $2,000 and a fee increase of 4% has been
determined, then a concession of 2% representing $40.00 will apply.
However, it is important that you submit a formal application, in writing, to the General Manager – Jenny
Milbourne will assist you in this regard.
If you turned 65 in earlier years and have completed 15 years continuous membership, you are entitled to apply
and you will receive a concession for 2006 onwards.
Additional concessions are available further down the track when members achieve a "score" of 120 points or
more based on age and years of continuous membership – as an example a member who is 70 and has 50 years
continuous membership will meet the criteria.
16. HANDICAPPER’S CORNER – NEIL CLEARY
CCR Calculation
This is based on the card which represents 12.5% of the total field size.
If the number of starters is 100, the 12th best score determines the CCR with the proviso that the CCR range must
fall within 71 to 74.
We explored the possibility of expanding the range limits to cover 70 to 75 but the logistics of gaining WAGA
approval resulted in the shelving of this plan.
I must emphasize that you should always swipe your card through the computer prior to tee-off. Failure to do so
may have an impact on the CCR calculation if some of the players who did not swipe do not return a card, as the
system does not include them in the field size number.
Additionally, it is important that you take pain to ensure that the score noted in the top right portion of the
scorecard is correct, as again, failure to get it right may result not only in an incorrect CCR calculation but may
also impact the golf ball allocations.
On Thursday, 12/12/05 a player’s score was inadvertently recorded as 7 up instead of 7 down. The net effect was
that the original CCR calculation came out as 71 but upon recalculation was 72 and adjustments were required for
14 players, impacted by the change.
4 Ball Events
I am not comfortable handicapping players in a 4-ball event due to the fact that:
(a) These are primarily fun events where players are often not under great pressure to perform.
(b) The process relies heavily on how many times a player appears on the card and the "smart" players will
ensure that this is "managed"“ closely by them.
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However, the WAGA handicap booklet recommends that 4-ball events shall be subject to handicapping review.
A survey of other Clubs confirms that this practice is universally applicable.
The process works as follows:
Review all cards with an equivalent score of 6up or better.
For these particular cards review any player who is on the card a minimum of 9 times.
His calculated score is based on the scores recorded on the card, plus an allowance of 1 point on each hole where
his partner appears.
Assuming we are playing Stableford and there are no holes "wiped" the player may be on the card 12 times for
31 points which converts to an equivalent score of 37 points, allowing for 1 point on each of the other 6 holes.
CCR for all 4-ball events is fixed as 72.
No Return Cards
Please note that there is no adjustment to your handicap unless you complete the course and return a valid card.
Handicapper's Discretion
At all times the Match Committee reserves the right to make adjustments to any player’s handicap if such a change
is considered justifiable.
All such changes must be endorsed by at least 2 members of the Match Committee.
At present, a member of Middle Eastern persuasion is being watched very closely.
17. UPDATE ON SICK AND INJURED MEMBERS – BOB HORGAN
J Grove - Still in rehabilitation following a stroke some while ago now.
K Habbishow - Back playing – handicap has increased from 26 to 33.
T Gerritzen - Back playing but struggling somewhat so side bettors please have mercy.
T Brown - Recently resigned.
18. DETAILS OF PROPOSED BUGGY ROOM STORAGE CHARGES – BOB HORGAN
The Board has determined that a nominal fee of $1.00 per week will be charged to those Members wishing to store
their buggies in the Club’s buggy rooms including those maintained by the Pro-shop.
In addition, battery-charging facilities will be available at an additional $1.00 per week.
These charges are in line with the Board’s policy of equality and revenues will be used to improve Members'
facilities. Other Clubs also make similar charges for such facilities.
The new structure is not likely to take effect until late 2006.
19. NEW CART AMD BIKE STORAGE SHEDS
These are now complete and in use.
Two motor bikes were recently stolen from the old shed and it would be appreciated if those using this storage
area, could be doubly vigilant in ensuring they " lock-up" at all times and if other members could keep an eye out
for anything suspicious in the vicinity of these areas.
Please note that all cart and bike storage areas are covered by the Club's general insurance contract and members
must ensure that they have advised details to the General Manager to ensure all assets are fully covered.
20. ARRIVALS/DEPARTURES/TRANSFERS (EXC JUNIORS AND CADETS)
For the time frame 1/12/05 to 31/1/2006 the following membership changes have taken place:
NEW MEMBERS
SIX-DAY PROVISIONAL SIX DAY COUNTRY
Andrew Percy Kevin Kalogirou Ian Bolton
Dwayne Palmer Kelvin Williams
Alan Chan James Moyle
Graham Boswell James Barry
Peter McGilvray Tim Mann
Yoshitaka Nangano
Kel Watkins
David Harrod
Tim Emery
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RESIGNATIONS NON PLAYING
Madge McIntosh - Associate Ross Hannah - Ordinary Jim McCartney
Alanna Fandry - Bus. Assoc. Ian Fallick - 6-Day John Parrott
Todd Pearce - Ordinary Scott Freeman - 6-Day Vince Pensabene
Adrian Lannary - Ordinary Mark Lewis - 6-Day Alan Shakespeare
Niels Anderson- 6-Day Prov. Ron Bennett - Country Tony Chong
Jason Morgan - 6-Day Prov. Kok Leaw - Country Carol Mercovich
David Morgan - Country Tricia Brown - Associate Yoshiko Tsuda
Hans Schutte
Tim Khor
TRANSFER TO NON-PLAYING
Sean Baguley Gary Holmes Rob Mitchell
Ross Hook Cliff Wachmer Terri Fukuda
Eoin Tyrrell Rob Stasinowski Alistair Graham
Brett Thorpe Clayton Gunning Ena Reichard
Tom Brown Simon Foley Ross Keating
Scott Bruce Andrew Foley Ric Bowers
Kevin Burton Royma Robson (Social) Viv Goldsmith (Social)
TRANSFERS FROM NON-PLAYING
Ian Mansfield Todd Bennett Graeme Clement
Pat Keenan Wendy Jagiello Jennifer Montagu
Peter Canterbury Yuko Suzuki Keith Habbishow
Alan Davis Michael Frampton John Bolton
Richard Fuller Helen Yeo Eleanor Bellett
Damien Smith Grant Ross Clem McCormick
21. CAR PARK - RESURFACING
It has been decided to resurface the car park in two separate stages. The Eastern car park area was recently
resurfaced over 3 days – 8 to 10 March 2006. The Western section will be resurfaced in 2007. This is to allow the
Board time to:
Redesign parking bays to allow better access to and from.
Improve the foundation of the present area.
Consider the removal of the fence to this area and maybe, change the garden, if considered necessary.
Finish the kerbing, tree planting and reticulation, if required.
22. COMPETITION VOUCHERS
Please note that these lapse after 3 months so please cash in at the Pro-shop or over the Bar to avoid
disappointment.
23. RECIPROCAL COURSE AVAILABILITY – PENNANT SEASON
Planning has started for a scheme which will enable our players to play at other clubs on days when RFGC hosts
Pennant games.
This is an excellent initiative and will enable you to test your game away from your comfort zone at RFGC. My
statistics indicate that RFGC players, on average, are 7 shots per round worse at other Clubs.
24. MEMBERS' BALL CREDIT BALANCES
Many members have generated significant credit balances. You are encouraged to review your situation with a
view to reducing your balance to reasonable levels.
25. CATERER’S NEWS
Recent Twilight sit-down meals have been very successful and Jeff is hoping to continue this practice for selected
Friday evenings as the Season progresses.
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26. PLAYER PERFORMANCE – OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS
Are you finding it rather difficult to win a dollar from Messrs Peake, Thompson, C Bartels and Palermo, then the
following statistics covering 12 months to end of February 2006 may explain why:
Rounds Equal To or Better Handicap
Played Than Handicap % 28/2/05 28/2/06
B Peake 98 46 47 5.7 6.9
K Thompson 93 39 42 4.5 5.0
C Bartels 143 55 39 4.6 4.9
J Palermo 86 32 37 4.6 4.8
These numbers compare with a strike rate of 10–15 % for some of our well renowned hackers who shall remain
nameless.
It is interesting to note that during the above 12 month time frame the above players, between them, returned
37 away scores at other Clubs and the outcome was that only twice did they match or better their handicaps –
Lions at home and mice away!!!
Another interesting aside is that Chris Bartels played more competition rounds at RFGC than our A Grade Pennant
team Nos 1–6 collectively logged up.
Peaky's side bettors are funding a new storey for his house. Thommo is on the lookout for a new Rolls!!!
Centrelink will be contacting Chris in the near future regarding an adjustment to his Pension and we all help the
noisy Italian scrub bird fund his half time bar bill.
Peaky has an achilles heel in Stroke rounds and has a "strike rate" of only 24% compared to his overall 47% -
double the bets on Monthly medal days!!!
There seems little doubt that the current AGA handicapping system heavily favours lower handicap players as
evidenced by the fact that all 4 of the above have "drifted" out over the last 12 months despite consistent solid
performances far better than the average player in the Club.
As an example Player A on 4 handicap may fire 3 successive rounds of 37 points where CCR is 71 (111 points) –
his handicap remains unchanged.
Player B off 21 handicap may shoot 27, 25 and 39 Points on the same days (91 points) – his handicap is reduced
by 0.6!!!
A fair solution to this anomalous scenario from a side-betting perspective is for players on 6 or less to give a one
shot start to players on 10–15 and 2 shots to players on 16 or more - this will help level the playing field.
27. BUSY BEE – SUNDAY 12 FEBRUARY – GEOFF HAYNES
Thank you to the 70 Members and Associates who attended this year’s Busy Bee.
The major task on the day involved collection of pre-pruned cuttings using forklifts and an array of transport.
Next year we would like to see new faces, particularly new members and also pennant players are more than
welcome.
Dad’s army operates on a monthly basis (Friday 7.30 to 11.30) and new recruits are welcomed. The pay isn't great
but the rewards of seeing our stroll in the park theme are almost there.
28. ACES GALORE
After somewhat of a drought, there have been 5 Aces in 9 days late February/early March. Congratulations to the
following:
Garth Ives 23 February 2006 17th /7 iron.
Bob Bourne 2 March 2006 3rd.
Alf Carter 4 March 2006 17th/5 wood.
Frank Worrall 16 March 2006 8th.
Mike Bartels 16 March 2006 8th.
Some years ago, Des O’Connor slotted a hole-in-one at Nedlands but was somewhat subdued as his card read
8,8,1,7 but he now has a soul mate.
History repeated for Alf whose card read 7,7,7,1 – he returned net score of 77.
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29. FIXTURES 2006
RFGC is hosting the 2006 State Amateur Championships – Tuesday 25 to Sunday 30 April.
There will be no competitions on Tuesday and Thursday in this week, however there will be normal competitions
on the weekend, albeit that there are likely to be certain restrictions. As normal we will arrange time slots at
other Clubs.
On Monday & Tuesday 3 and 4 April the first tee will be closed to facilitate a road-show presentation by a crowd
called Titleist Acushnet who will carry out research for selected players regarding the aerodynamics of various
clubs and golf balls – essentially targeting single figure handicap players. Expect to see a very large van which
looks like a Mayne Nickless payroll van parked adjacent to the first tee.
The end result of this Greenfields Project will be the matching of the individual into the best-fitting driver and ball
for his/her present swing/set-up.
The Tuesday competition will need to commence on the 2nd hole and play the practice fairway 19th hole at the
end of the round as the "catch-up" hole.
30. ECLECTIC & CONSISTENCY EVENTS – 2006
The number of participants in the above events has fallen dramatically in recent years.
For those who are not familiar with how these competitions work the rules are broadly as follows:
Both cover all individual Saturday competitions throughout the course of the Winter Season commencing on
1 April 2006.
Entry fee for the Season is a once only cost of $2.50 for each Competition.
The Eclectic involves establishing a low score on each hole over the Winter Season and at the end of the Season, a
deduction of half your handicap is made.
As an illustration, let us assume that you have birdied 13 holes at some stage throughout the Season, parred the
other 5 and hold a handicap of 12 at the end of the day. This results in a gross score of 59 less 6 (half of 12) = 53.
The winning score is normally around 52.
The Consistency event requires a minimum of 15 cards – once you have played 17 or more, you are eligible to
delete the worst 2 rounds.
I would encourage members to enter these Competitions, as I believe it will provide an incentive to remain focused
during each round and may result in positive damage control on the not so good days.
31. RULES
Were you aware that there is no penalty for hitting the wrong ball in a bunker?
If you hit into the lake on 15th then you must either drop at point of entry or replay from your original position.
Some players are incorrectly dropping their ball level with where it finished.
Please note that all gravel paths on the course may be considered GUR (Rule 25.1).
32. TAKING THE PLUNGE
On 30 January, Ned and Georgia Stoker's daughter Jenny, tied the knot with her long-term partner Jeff Lakeside,
on the 15th. All went very well and the small wedding party were seen knocking balls onto the 15th green as part
of the ceremonial rites.
33. MONTY – DOWN TO SCRATCH
Our very promising 17-year-old Junior, Michael Montgomery has reduced his handicap to Scratch following a fine
round of 67 in the Albany Classic held over the recent long weekend.
Monty has the honour of Captaining the 2006 State Junior Team which will play in Queensland over Easter.
Our other gun Junior, Paul Mews is currently on Plus 1.
34. CLUBHOUSE SURROUNDS
A number of Members and Associates dedicate considerable voluntary time at the Club, maintaining the various
gardens dotted throughout the Clubhouse precincts.
These areas are looking a treat and provide a very favourable, initial impression, for visitors to the Club.
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35. OTHER SNIPPETS
Guiseppe Palermo (a most under-rated player) returned Net 86 on 21 January 2006 – must have been a brewery
strike that day the square that day!!!
Chris Bartels can currently boast to being the lowest handicap player for members aged over 60 years (4.8 as at
12 March 2006). Yet he needs to be on guard, as Ron Marlborough and Des O’ Connor are now in serious
training.
Vice Captain Leo James was spotted at the Vines, resplendent in his Johnnie Walker regalia. Leo was one of the
multitude of helpers at the tournament – the experience had an immediate positive outcome – 41 points at his next
start and now sporting the elusive single figure handicap he has been striving for. However, as expected, normality
soon resumed and he is back on 10.
He was also spotted at Subiaco Oval during the debut Western Force game - barracking silently for the ACT
Brumbies!!!
It looks like he will be a very active Vice Captain during 2006/2007.
Popular member Corry Battel who, in his younger days, was not only a champion boxer who represented his
country but also excelled in many other sports. He was State Team soccer goalie at one stage.
On Saturday, 18 February 2006, Corry’s group reached the 6th tee to find a young 9 or 10-year-old boy practising
to be Mara Donna Mark 2.
As is typical with Corry he quickly befriended the lad who could not quite reconcile with Corry’s alleged goalkeeping
prowess. Inevitably, Corry challenged the youngster to shoot one past him offering him $10.00 if he was
successful. The kid let rip with a Beckham like drive only to be thwarted by Corry’s spectacular diving save.
In the process however, he landed awkwardly and suffered an injury to the AC shoulder joint.
Four visits to the physios, at a cost of $200.00, saw Corry up and running for the following Saturday where he shot
a Peake (36 points) – most AFL players miss 4 to 6 weeks with this type of injury but not Corrado!!!
On Tuesday, 21 February 2006 Dennis Bell, Len Tidy, Peter Carbon and Brian Elliott played in the same
foursome, representing approximately 190 years of golf experience largely at a very high level – including
Australian representation, State Team, Club Championships, WA Opens and WA Amateur Championships etc.
Len was a long-standing RFGC member who some years ago switched to Lake Karrinyup.
Brian was also a useful Grade cricketer in his day and legend has it that he once faced Des Hoare, who in his
prime, was one of the most fearsome fast bowlers imaginable and also suffered badly from white line fever. After
facing 5 balls that seriously threatened his long term well being, the next ball fizzed through to the wicketkeeper
after Brian sheepishly played and missed, he immediately strode off towards the safety of the pavilion despite the
"keeper" insisting he missed the ball - Brian responded that it was near enough for him.
Denis was a very useful Mercantile Fast Bowler in his younger days before he discovered golf.
36. ROCKY BAY LIFE MEMBERS – DON PETERS
Don Peters, Charlie Bacich, Mario Cattalini and Joe Palermo are now Life Members, following their collective
efforts over many years in arranging the Annual Charity Fundraiser at RFGC.
This event was held late February 2006 and a number of our members fronted up the next day to the Saturday
competition looking like expatriates from the Rocky Horror Show and most played accordingly, didn’t they Mr
Grundy.
37. SOME GOLF ING TRUISMS – TONY KELLY
Everyone replaces the divot after a good shot.
A golf match is a test of your skill versus your opponent’s luck.
You can hit a 2-acre fairway 10% of the time but a 2-inch branch 90% of the time.
NEIL CLEARY - EDITOR
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